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Contributing Writers: Nanci Gregory - TAAS Members Photography Carol Sheppard - TAAS Member Glass & Jewelry Jennifer East - TAAS Member Weaving & Mixed Media Betty Heldman - TAAS Member Cross-stitch Beverly Heldman - TAAS Owner, Jewelry mixed media Donna Mayton - Executive Assistant Handcraft Marketing
Appalachian Features Magazine Phone: 828-668-1070 Email: dheldman@taasg.com Mail: P.O. Box 2242, Old Fort, NC 28762 48 East Main Street Old Fort, NC 28762
Columns: Walks and Hikes in the Appalachians TAAS Feature Artist of month Events and classes for Art & Crafts Appalachian B&B Review TAAS Value and dealer locations Heritage Recipes Explore Small towns in Appalachia Ask Oneida - Send in your questions about art and Oneida will answer
App Features Magazine - Production Team Publisher: Dru Heldman Editor: Bev Heldman Managing Editor: Donna Mayton Art & Direction: Dru Heldman Staff Photographer: Bev Heldman Accounting and Advertising Director: Donna Mayton
Unifiweb™ a Pinwilz™ Company
This Issue Feature Artisan Susan Stanton Native American Art – The story of the Turtle Stitch & Chatter TAAS Breaking through the Great Recession Upcoming Events Cover Photo provide by Susan Stanton Feature Story by Dru Heldman
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Susan Stanton September Feature Artisan By: Dru Heldman
This cold winter scene depicts a worn pathway and railing disappearing into the frosty snow covered landscape.
It is with great pleasure that we present Susan Stanton as our feature artist. Her work is unlike any other. I’ve had the honor of getting to know Susan over the last few months that she has displayed here at TAAS. The more I learn about her techniques, the more I come to appreciate her skill and the difficulty she endures to get the perfect photo. She told me how she waits for the sun to be just right and sometime sits for hours waiting for that artistic lighting on the subject. The cover piece is a real set-up no re-touching and all with natural sun light. For many artists the goal is to get their paintings to look like photos with realism and depth, to fool the onlooker to think that it is a photo. With Susan’s work I find myself captivated that she does almost the opposite. Her photos look like masterpiece paintings. The richness of color, that bathing of sunlight and the three dimensionalism of real life. It’s no wonder that Susan is such an accomplished artist wth her works on display in both public and private collections around the world. Check out Susan’s full bio on the website www.taas.com and link over to her website for even more views of her work. Susan also has a series of greeting cards available and we can special order any of her images in various sizes printed on canvas.
This quintessential Blue Ridge Parkway image depicts a beautiful summer scene. As the morning light washes across the mountains, bright yellow flowers fill the foreground.
If you can get into TAAS before the end of the month you will see Susan Stanton’s expanded collection of paintings on the Fine Art Feature Wall. Fall color photos perfect for cozy cabin décor.
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Native American Art By Donna Mayton The subject of Native American Art is vast and has many origins. It would be an injustice to try to explain just a piece of art without the background and the lore, or the stories that go along with most native art creations.
the continent. They referred to themselves as Anishnabe - a word that means the people.
While writing these articles for Native American Art I will try to educate, as well as entertain you with a blending of true facts and Native lore, and possibly without getting political, create an understanding of Native ways and culture. Keep in mind "Native America" encompasses many tribes, each with their own interpretation of symbols and stories and cultures as diverse as the areas they lived and some still live in today. Please start with an open mind and forget anything and everything you ever saw in a John Wayne movie. (Need I say more? - Remember, I don't want to get political). Another important fact; Ancient Native artifacts and Native American Art today are still victims of "black market arts" all over the world. Pictured RIGHT is a Turtle Rattle made by Buckhorn Crossing, Pam and Bryan Barnett of Weaverville, NC, available at TAAS Gallery. I thought it appropriate to start with Turtle. Turtle has lots of symbolism in Native American lore. Starting with "Turtle Island" which is what the continent of North America (the United States and Canada) is referred to in many Native stories. Turtle Lore from An Anishnabe (Anishinabe) Legend The Anishnabe/Ojibwa Indians (The Eastern Woodland Culture in the northeastern United States spread north into central Canada)
Anishnabe territory extended from the eastern seaboard, west to the headwaters of the Mackenzie River. The Ojibwa lands were bounded in the north by the sub-Arctic tundra and followed the Mississippi south to the Carolina's. The Anishnabe people didn't build tipis...they made wigwams from bent saplings and covered the exterior with bark or hides. A small wigwam could be built in a day. More time was spent on constructing larger wigwams that could shelter a dozen or more people through severe winter weather. Those living south of the Great Lakes had access to all those food sources, but the climate and terrain further south also leant itself to agriculture. Anishnabe grew small gardens of corn, and beans - a skill that had migrated along the trade routes.
At the time Europeans reached the shores of North America, the Ojibwa Indians were the largest tribe on
The Anishnabe Story of Turtle. It was one of those days when Nanaboozhoo was in a strange mood. He had just awakened from a deep sleep that was disturbed by the noisy quarreling and scolding of the blue jays. He was a bit cranky; his sleep was disturbed and besides that, he was hungry.
His first thought was to go down to the village and find something to eat. Entering the village, he came across some men cooking fish. They had their camp located close to Continued next page 4
the water and Nanaboozhoo spied many fish cooking over a fire. Now, being very hungry, he asked for something to eat. The men were happy to give him some, but cautioned him that is was hot. Not
shell, she pushed herself along the shore and disappeared into the water. So, ever since that accident long ago, Turtle has been special to the Anishnabek. To this day, she continues to grace Mother Earth, still proudly wearing those two shells.
Rattle Facts & Uses heeding their warning, he quickly grabbed the fish and burned his hand. He ran to the lake to cool it off in the water. Still unsteady from his deep sleep, he tripped on a stone and fell on Mi-she-kae (turtle) who was sunning on the beach. At that time, Mishekae was not as we know her today. She had no shell and was comprised of soft skin and bone. Turtle complained loudly to Nanaboozhoo to watch where he was going. Now, Nanaboozhoo felt ashamed of his clumsiness and apologized to Mishekae. He wondered, "what can I do to make it up to her?" He wanted to do something to help his friend. "I'll have to sit and think it over,"he thought, as he followed the path back to his wigwam. Sometime later, he returned to the beach and called for Mishekae. Turtle poked her head through the soft beach mud. Nanaboozhoo picked up two large shells from the shore and placed one on top of the other. He scooped up Mishekae and put her right in the middle, between the shells. Nanaboozhoo took a deep breath and began. "You will never be injured like that again." he said slowly. "Whenever danger threatens," he continued, "you can pull your legs and head into the shell for protection". Nanaboozhoo sat beside his friend on the beach and told Mishekae his thoughts. "The shell itself is round like Mother Earth. It was a round hump which resembles her hills and mountains. It is divided into segments, like martyrizes that are a part of her; each different and yet connected by her." Mishekae seemed very pleased with and listened intently. "You have four legs, each representing the points of direction North, South, East and West." he said. "When the legs are all drawn in, all directions are lost. Your tail will show the many lands where the Anishnabek have been and your head will point in the direction to follow. "You will have advantages over the Anishnabek," he went on. "You will be able to live in the water as well as on land and you will be in your own house at all times." Mishekae approved of her new self and thanked Nanaboozhoo for his wisdom. Moving now in a thick
In Native American heritage, rattles are among the most interesting instruments used during ceremonies. It is an interesting fact that not all American Indian tribes used drums historically, but most do use rattles. Different tribes use rattles now as they have for generations. They also play an important role in the spiritual relationship with the creator. They are also used in community gatherings. Historically, Native American rattles have been essential to tribal ceremonies being symbolic to each tribe that uses them. The symbols may include the animal, plant and mineral kingdom. A turtle shell or gourd container may represent the animal kingdom, along with feathers or animal hide pieces. Small rocks may also represent the mineral kingdom as they are placed inside. The plant kingdom is usually represented by seeds placed inside the rattle or the handle of the rattle. The earthen paints that may be used to decorate the rattle are also from the plant kingdom. Other natural choices include shells, antlers and bones. A favorite of some of the North American tribes are decorative rattles made with hand carved gourds or turtle shells. Each tribe uses the different materials from their areas for their own way of making the rattles. They use different colors, symbols, beads, patterns, feathers, hides, rocks, seeds and plants. These materials are what the artist uses to create a personal and unique rattle. When you learn which tribes use which designs, you know with certainty the tribe that made it. They are handcrafted works of art. One thing that seems to be a common thread between the tribes is that they use rattles along with dancing. They also use them for medicine and spirituality. Music and songs along with family stories have always played an important part of Native American teachings. Sharing generations of old legends and early teachings through ceremonial rituals has preserved traditional beliefs. 5
Stitch & Chatter Betty Heldman The Beginning - October 1999 This program started when Betty Heldman went into the house of Jessie Graves in Pigeon Forge, TN and saw all the lovely crocheted afghans that she had all over her house. Betty suggested that the church, ( First Presbyterian, Sevierville, TN) could form a sewing group if Jessie would help some of the women to learn or rekindle their knowledge of crocheting. She readily agreed. The name "Stitch & Chatter" came from a Presbyterian church group in Yonkers, New York which also had a sewing group. Charter members of this group were: Willie Delozier, Ethel Grady, Jessie Graves, Betty Heldman, Betty Tygert and Juanita Willard. They met weekly and agreed to give all their handmade afghans and
baby blankets to the local hospitals and nursing homes. In the summer of 2003 the location of our program was changed from the church to the new Sevier County Senior Center on Chapman Highway in Sevierville. By doing so we added a few new members including Ann Matuszak, Ruth Matthews and Leoda Whaley, Vicki Stradley, Jean Dew, Betty Walters. Barbara Storms, Geraldine Clark, Pauline Miller, Anilee McGill, Sieta Neutenbaum, Kathryn Lathan, Joan Renaud, June Ramundo, Barbara Roy, Debra Roberts, Eva Reeves, Stephanie Curtis, Ruth Fincham. As of this date, we have given away 593 afghans, 310 baby blankets, 438 hats (baby/adult), 60 scarfs/shawls, 96 miscellaneous items including wristlets, sweaters, wash cloths and pillows. Donations of yarn are always appreciated.
Bed & Breakfast Enhanced by Art & Crafts By Carol Sheppard Southern Orchid Glass & Jewelry Designs One-of-a-kind Art Glass and Wearable Art Jewelry
Art lovers are to Bed-and-Breakfasts in the same way that dark chocolate is to a fine red wine. You don’t have to incorporate dark chocolate to enjoy a quality red wine, but it definitely enhances the pleasure. If you are someone for whom the purchase of a new piece of art first creates a hum of excitement as you contemplate where you will display your new acquisition, followed by a repetitive zen-like state each time you behold your new art piece, you are probably the same type of person who can appreciate that staying at a B&B is more than just an accommodation…it’s an adventure. B&B’s, unlike your standard motel or hotel, possess a unique personality, each and every one being totally different from the next one. Motels and hotels typically strive for the uniformity and consistency that is the hallmark and appeal for loyal clientele. Although not a prerequisite for a Bed-and-Breakfast, many are located within historic buildings or residences and are therefore one-of-a-kind properties. Renovations can maintain the historic perspective or the property owner may have added modern amenities for the comfort of their guests.
Probably the most enticing thing about Bedand-Breakfasts, and what ultimately creates the atmosphere that appeals to those seeking a brief adventure instead of just a stay, is the décor. Each TAASG Item #: 14343 room is different, Artist Item #: Small fused candle holder gold swirl $ 15.00 often incorporating a theme, or a specific object, color or focus. Many Bed-and-Breakfasts have incorporated the work of local artists into their properties, sometimes promoting sales of specific pieces on display. Bed-andBreakfast owners are often able to steer their guests to the best galleries for collecting local art. While relaxing and enjoying the hospitality of the Bed-andBreakfast owners, you may browse and study the art on display, even asking questions about the artists, with whom the Bed-and-Breakfast owners often have a relationship. I have even had the opportunity to 6
personally meet some artists after expressing an interest in the artwork displayed on the premises of the Bed-andBreakfasts where I was staying. During one such meeting, I was delighted to not only engage in a long conversation with a watercolor artist about her work, but was offered the chance to browse through her studio so that I could select from among pieces that she had not yet placed for public viewing. In this way, I acquired a unique piece of artwork that I value and enjoy to this day. My purchase was made more special for me by the memory of the time I spent with the artist. Because Bed-and-Breakfasts are generally owner-operated, the personalities and interests of the owners provide the impetus behind their selection of art for their properties. Some Bed-and-Breakfasts tie their artwork to the unique features of the local area. For instance, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, artwork depicting local scenery is often utilized to decorate the common areas of Bed-and-Breakfasts, with the individual rooms theme-based on flowers or other indigenous plants and trees. In the same way that Bed-and-Breakfast hosts work one-on-one with guests to recommend restaurants and sight-seeing options, through exposure to these art pieces, a guest might discover a place they had not considered in their research of an area. Make your next visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains more than just a couple of days of R&R. By staying in a local Bedand-Breakfast and connecting with a local gallery such as TAASG in Old Fort, North Carolina, you can create memories that will last well beyond the two or three days you spend in the area.
Events Every Saturday in July 12-Noon - 3:00 PM Crochet with Marie - Crochet and Knitting group meets in TAAS Gallery. Free to learn
Date Every Saturday in July
Time 12-Noon - 3:00 PM
Event
October
Details Crochet and Knitting group meets in TAAS Gallery. Free to learn Regular Business Hours TAAS Feature Artist Susan Stanton Expanded display of photography by Susan Stanton. Feature Artist Rust Pottery Expanded display of Rust Pottery
October 2-4
Fri-Sun
Oktoberfest
September
Crochet with Marie
st
Old Fort’s largest annual festival 1 weekend in October
TAAS Breaking through the Great Recession - we can all end the rut It’s being called the “Great Recession” not to be confused with the great depression in the 1920’s but what ever you call it, it has been tough on everyone. Everyone knows someone that has been laid-off from work, had their pay cut or suffered some losses in the stock market. We at TAAS have not been immune to this rare economic situation. I wouldn’t proclaim an early victory as there is still time for things to get worse- but I am blown away by the facts. While the gallery has had a challenging past 12 months with slower sales, we have had an increase in the number of sales transactions each month. The sale amounts have been lower per sale but the increase has been constant throughout the recession. Here recently in the last month and a half we’ve seen even more better news. Our sales are up over last year and up
over two years ago. People are in much better spirits and optimism is on the rise. I hope and I pray that this is a trend and not a fluke. We need better sales for all of our members. Without sales the artisan loose motivation and without motivation they stop being creative and with out creativity everyone get stuck in a rut. People in ruts are not friendly and pass-on ill feelings to others. It just not a positive environment. So lets make our place here on earth the best it can be. Support your local creative people by showing them that you appreciate the value of what they do and the fact that they are capable of creating something with their hands. Buy a handcraft and end the rut. 7
Feature Artisans
See the complete artisan listing on-line
These Features Artisans all have on-line bios and product listings on the taasg.com website. Visit www.taasg.com and click on shop. Buy from up to 70 different artisans with one shipment UPS/Fed-EX & USPS • •
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Butterfly Blends Soy Candles, Soy melting Tarts & Pillar Candles Old Fort, NC Dana Abee Reynolds of Abee Artistry Jewelry Designer, Artist Little Switzerland, NC Debbie Acrivos of Sassy Bags Sewn Crafts Old Fort, NC Katrina Bass of Appalachia Blue Jewelry - crochet wire bead weaving peyote, spiral Old Fort, NC Donna Clark of Nature Maid Soap & Lotion Homemade Soap and Lotion Marion, NC Kevin Clark of K & D Fine Handcrafted and T... Fine Handcrafted Turned Wood Marion, NC Lisa Davis Jewelry Design, Charlotte, NC Jerry Depew of Spoonin' It With Jerry Handcrafted hardwood spoons, sculptures & collages Kings Mountain, NC Jennifer East of SouthWest by East MIved media, collage, loom and off-loom weaving, felting, original Marion, NC Lee Entrekin of Dreamwind Handmade Native American Style Flutes, Made in a full range of keys ... Old Fort, NC
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Denise Geiger Painting - Oil & Pastels Black Mountain, NC Lana Gentile Acrylic Paintings - Landscapes, seascapes, wildlife, and architecture. Old Fort, NC Cecilia Gilliam Photos on Canvas Old Fort, NC Cecilia Gilliam of CleverCraft Gifts Rustic florals and accents, hand painted flowers, birds, butterflies... Old Fort, NC Nanci Gregory Photography Claremont, NC Pat Harris of Pine Needle Creations Swannanoa, NC Betty Heldman Crocheting afghans and baby blankets Sevierville, TN Bev Heldman of PINWILZ Wire creations, Jewelry, wood burning. Old Fort, NC Faye Huskey of Front Row Beads Jewelry Barbara Klein of Honeybee Handmade Jewelry, Candler, NC Casey Kristofferson of Little Flower People, handpainted clothes, Old Fort, NC Michael & Debbie Maine of MDM Designs Wood Turnings, Wood Crafts & Native American Artifacts Recreations Taylorsville, NC Martha Nelson Wheel formed and hand-built
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Stoneware Pottery Ridgecrest, NC Kerri Newman of Blue Ridge Studios, Lampwork glass, Lenoir, NC Karen K. Paquette of Abstract Garden Fine Art, Abstract, Mixed media Black Mountain, NC Eileen Ross, Multi-media paintings, Black Mountain, NC Debbie Rust of Rust Pottery Pottery Gastonia, NC Carol Sheppard of Southern Orchid Glass & Jewelry, Kilnformed Art Glass, Mosaics, and Wearable Art Jewelry Dahlonega, GA Penny Skoog Japanese Temari Balls and Polymer Clay Designs and Jewelry Maggie Valley, NC Susan Stanton Photography Horse Shoe, NC Jenean Stone Photography Black Mountain, NC Anne Stone Locker Hooking, Pottery Montreat, NC Bob Stuart of Old Man Carvings Hand Carved Woodland Spirits Cypress Knees, Bottle Stoppers and Hiking Sticks Greensboro, NC Helen Sullivan, painting and sculpture, Old Fort, NC Darryl Totherow Native American walking sticks, Dream catchers Newton, NC
Ask Oneida - Send in your questions about art and Oneida will answer. Have a question about handcrafts or something handcrafts related? Give Oneida a try. We’ll publish the answers in the Appalachian Features Magazine. Write to: Ask Oneida at TAAS Gallery P.O. Box 2242 Old Fort, NC 28762 8